[Via Satellite 01-15-2016] The United States First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) has issued its Request for Proposals (RFP) for the deployment of its nationwide public safety broadband network intended to modernize communications for first responders and other public safety personnel across the U.S. The release of the RFP follows more than a year of dialogue with government, public safety and industry on the objectives and scope of the RFP for the FirstNet network. The build-up to the release has included 13 Requests for Information (RFIs), a set of draft RFP documents, two industry day public events, answers to more than 650 questions related to network specifications, and meetings with interested vendors.

Proposals to the RFP are due April 29, with questions and capability statements due Feb. 12 and March 17, respectively. FirstNet will review and consider all responses submitted and anticipates making an award in the fourth quarter of this year.